To Dick's family. it is with sadness I offer my sympathys. I knew Dick thru his Chalk Talks when I was a boy. his artwork was an inspiration to me, a young budding artist. he did a special drawing for me which I kept for years. I also knew him thru the Coila church. I later grew up to run a sign and graphic arts business for 40 years. it was artists like Dick who gave me the encouragement to make art a career. I am a Christian, as I know Dick was as well, and we will see him again when Christ calls us home.
God Bless you during this time of loss.

We were blessed to be part of the Coila Community for almost 15 years. Getting a hug from Dick was always a highlight of Sundays for me. He had a big smile and a word of encouragement. Our kids loved his leprechaun green blazer, that he looked so snazzy in. He showed us all how to age with amazing grace. I loved hearing him on the piano, in later years mostly on Palm Sunday when he would play Via De La Rosa. Such a blessing to have known him! I miss him! I just read his memoirs! They're wonderful! It was like listening to him tell a story.

I remember walking the halls of CCS in grade school and seeing Mr. Dawson teaching art to high schoolers. Then I saw Mr. Dawson do a chalk talk at the Coila church. As I got older, I sang in the choir with him and I accompanied him while he played violin. He was always very encouraging and I'm sure he will be missed by all.